A photo of the expected budget version of the Tesla Model Y has leaked online, revealing both a simplified design and a higher-than-expected price. The image, along with some of the specifications and prices, briefly appeared on Tesla's official website before being quickly removed.
Simplified design and specifications
If the leaked information is accurate, the new model, called the Model Y Standard, will be a significantly simplified version of the updated Model Y Juniper. The changes are focused on reducing production costs and include:
Front: The crossover has simpler optics, reminiscent of those installed on the updated Model 3. The most noticeable difference is the lack of a light strip across the entire width of the body at the front. The front bumper also has simpler shapes, without massive air intakes and with a simplified black panel at the bottom.
Profile and interior: The car is equipped with black $18\text{-inch wheels with plastic caps. It is said that in order to reduce costs, the crossover will have a regular roof (instead of a panoramic one), manual height adjustment of the steering wheel, and the rear-row display will be removed and replaced with air vents.
Price positioning
Despite the significant simplification, the price reduction of the base crossover is not as drastic as many expected. Estimated price: The Model Y Standard is expected to start at $39,990 in the United States. Comparison: This price is only $5,000 less than the current price of the Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, which costs $44,490.
The appearance of such a base model should increase sales in key markets, but there is a risk that it will be perceived as too compromised by the removal of some key equipment elements.